In this episode, I talk with Tucker Perkins, MBA, the president and CEO of the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), about the pivotal role of engineering in the ever-evolving energy landscape, highlighting the importance of propane technology and sustainability in the journey towards a greener world.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Tucker:
- What are some key propane technology innovations that align with the evolving energy landscape?
- How do differing viewpoints significantly influence your role as an engineer, and how can you effectively educate others on viable engineering practices, emphasizing both successful strategies and ineffective approaches?
- How has your engineering expertise shaped your perspective on achieving a net-zero society, given the challenges of overhauling existing infrastructure?
- How will engineering roles change during the energy transition, and what skills will be increasingly important in this evolving field?
- What have you learned from talking to energy experts about how we can reach net zero in carbon emissions?
- How soon do you think nuclear fusion will be viable, and do you consider it the safest way to achieve our energy efficiency targets?
- What are some new ways propane technology is helping sustainability, and how can engineers get involved in this field?
- What are the key differences between diesel and propane in terms of cost efficiency, environmental impact, and the harm caused by diesel to the environment?
- How are collaborative efforts or initiatives influencing the future of the propane industry, and what opportunities exist for engineers to engage in these developments?
- What challenges do engineers face when entering these industries and exploring new technologies?
- What resources do you recommend for energy enthusiasts to explore and deepen their knowledge in the field?
- What career advice would you give to aspiring engineers who want to work in the dynamic energy sector?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Propane Technology, Sustainability, and the Road to Net Zero:
- The evolving energy landscape demands innovative engineering solutions, particularly in alternative fuels such as wind, solar, and hydrogen. This requires sophisticated engineering techniques to navigate the complex underground and aerial infrastructure, as well as a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted technical challenges of the modern energy system.
- Engineers manage both ambitious ideas and practical solutions, addressing emotional biases and promoting comprehension of the complexities in transitioning to cleaner energy sources for tangible progress now.
- Engineers play a critical role in addressing the systemic challenges of achieving net-zero emissions, particularly in light of the complexities of the first law of thermodynamics. This requires recognizing the comprehensive nature of the issue and developing viable solutions within the energy landscape.
- In the changing world of energy, engineers play a crucial role in considering new possibilities like improved batteries and potential advances in nuclear power, while also emphasizing the continued need for engineering talent to meet the challenges and opportunities of the evolving energy sector, highlighting the vital contributions that engineers can make in shaping the future of energy.
- Experts on the “Path to Zero” podcast talk about many different energy topics, like nuclear power, carbon capture, and climate science. They also talk about the importance of making sure that everyone has access to energy, even if they don’t have a lot of money. The experts have different opinions on some things, but they all agree that it’s important to make changes to our energy system to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Nuclear fusion is the safest and cleanest way to produce energy. But it is very difficult to do. Even though there has been a lot of progress recently, and private companies are investing in fusion research, it is unlikely that fusion power will be widely used before 2045. We need to keep doing research and development to make fusion power a reality.
- Propane technology is becoming increasingly important in the shift to sustainable energy. It is now being used to replace diesel in transportation and material handling, and it is also playing a growing role in reliable and cleaner power generation. This is a significant development, and it shows how engineering can play a vital role in advancing sustainable energy solutions.
- Medium-duty propane vehicles produce 25% fewer greenhouse gases, 97% less nitrogen oxide emissions, and 99.99% less particulate matter than modern diesel vehicles. This makes them a more affordable and environmentally friendly option for transportation.
- The propane industry is collaborating with solar, wind, and electric powertrain teams to develop innovative ways to achieve net-zero homes, buildings, and transportation solutions. This collaboration is essential for developing cost-effective and climate-friendly energy solutions, and it demonstrates the industry’s commitment to providing comprehensive and effective solutions to the evolving energy landscape.
- The main challenges for engineers entering these industries and exploring new technologies are collaboration and communication between different sectors. It takes a lot of effort, dedication, and vision to overcome financial constraints, navigate complex regulatory landscapes, and deal with uncertainty. At the same time, engineers must strive to create innovative and compelling systems that can drive regulatory change. There is already tangible progress in a variety of fields, from residential and commercial construction to transportation and material handling. This shows that ambitious and transformative goals can be achieved through proactive and collaborative efforts.
- Energy enthusiasts can stay informed about the industry by reading a variety of sources, including newspapers, trade publications, podcasts, and books. Newspapers like the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal provide global coverage of energy news and trends. Trade publications offer in-depth analysis of key issues and developments. Podcasts and books by experts offer unique perspectives and insights. By reading and listening to a variety of sources, energy enthusiasts can stay up to date on the latest news, trends, and insights.
- Aspiring engineers should follow their passion, develop strong communication skills, and cultivate both their analytical and creative sides. These qualities are essential for success and satisfaction in the engineering field.
More Details in This Episode…
About Tucker Perkins, MBA
Tucker Perkins is the president and CEO of the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that invests in the research and development of propane-powered innovation, consumer education about propane, and promotes the safe, efficient use of propane through safety training and education programs.
Perkins graduated from Virginia Tech with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and earned his MBA from the University of Richmond. He is active with many industry organizations, including the National Propane Gas Association, the Industrial Truck Association, the Outdoor Power Institute, and the World LP Gas Association.
A dynamic and relatable leader who has amplified propane’s voice in the national energy conversation, Tucker has been a frequent keynote speaker on energy-related topics on the domestic and international stage.
Perkins is also host of the podcast, Path to Zero, in which he engages energy thought leaders in provocative discussions regarding energy and the environment and the path to zero carbon emissions.
About the Host: Matthew Douglas
Matthew currently serves as the operations leader for the Engineering Management Institute. As a leader, Matthew’s goal is to ensure the efficacy and efficiency of the Learning and Development group. A civil engineer by trade, Matthew has developed a passion for construction and stormwater management through maintenance and rehabilitation services. Matthew has also had experience working for private consulting firms and public agencies and has even held the role of an educator. As such, he loves to lead, build, mentor, and help those in need.
Most recently, during his time working for the public sector, Matthew took on the role of a public works operations manager. There he led quite a few public infrastructure rehabilitation projects and implemented new asset management technologies at a very young age. It is here that the passion for “fixing what’s broken” developed. He now uses his talents to lead EMI’s Learning and Development – Operational procedures, train engineers, and co-host podcasts.
Books Mentioned in This Episode:
Sources/References:
Propane
Virginia Tech
American Airlines
Delta Air Lines
Department of Energy
Nikola Tesla
Nuclear Fusion
Cummins
Path to Zero Podcast
New York Times
Wall Street Journal
Forbes
The Economist
Connect with Tucker Perkins, MBA, on LinkedIn
This Episode Is Brought to You by Burns & McDonnell:
At Burns & McDonnell, our engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists, and scientists do more than plan, design, and construct. With a mission unchanged since 1898 — make our clients successful — our more than 13,500 professionals partner with you on the toughest challenges, constantly working to make the world an amazing place. Each professional brings an ownership mentality to projects at our 100% employee-owned firm, which has safety performance among the top 5% of AEC firms. That means we think like owners, working through each challenge until it’s resolved, meeting or exceeding our client’s goals. Find out more about Burns & McDonnell here: burnsmcd.com/careers
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on propane technology, sustainability, and the road to net zero.
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